Telford Tigers are delighted to announce the return of Joe Aston. The popular Aston first appeared for Telford Tigers in 2014 and was part of the double winning team in 2020 and the league championship winning side in 2022. Joe stepped down from National League level last season due to work commitments but is now able to return.
We caught up with Joe to discuss his return:
Welcome back. What was behind you reason to return to the National League level after playing for the Laidler League team last season?
A”With my change in career, I needed to take a step back in order to fully understand my work life balance and whether hockey could fit into that mix. I have more time than I thought and with the support of my fiancée and family I am able to make it happen again. It’s an honour to be able to play for the National League team again.”
Did you miss playing at National League level last season?
“I massively missed playing for the National League team. I missed the fans, the atmosphere, the team and the level of hockey. I can’t wait to get playing again.”
Did you watch many Tigers games last season? Was it frustrating to not be able to be on the ice when the team were going through that bad run?
“Yeah, I watched a couple of games here and there when I could, I even popped in while I was working for a playoff game at home. I didn’t enjoy watching the team struggle after such a successful couple of years, but this is a fresh season and I’m sure Tom will have the team ready to go from the first game.”
What are you hoping to bring to the team next season?
“I like to see myself as a hard working gritty player that is not afraid to mix it up. I won’t be able to play every game because of work commitments, but when I am there, I hope to bring energy Joe Can’t Say No. Aston is Back.to the team and the crowd, with the odd goal here and there.”
After so much recent success at the club, do you think Tigers will be back contesting for honours again?
“Yes, I’m sure we will be competing for every honour available. I know we will have a strong roster and will be competitive.”
Do you have a message for the fans ahead of the new season?
A)” I’m looking forward to getting back on the ice in front of a packed house and fighting for every piece of silverware. I know our fans will support us from the first game so be loud and proud.”
Telford Tigers Head Coach and General Manager Tom Watkins commented
“Getting Joe back playing at this level was a bit of a surprise, a good one for sure. It was not something I was planning but when Joe made it clear about his desire to return to the National League team and having settled into his new role with work, knowing his work schedule well in advance it works well. We get a solid player we all know very well, he fits straight into the group and know what an asset he is. He brings maturity, experience, more size, speed and grit, can chip in with goals, set the tone and play in a variety of situations.”
Joe’s own and loan shirts are available to order now for £150 each (Home and Away). Please see the Tigers’ Online Shop for details.
In the 2023/24 season, Tigers are again offering individual player sponsorship at £500. The package will include a personalised ‘SPECIAL’ exclusive third jersey with a company name or family name patch, announcements on match nights, a small advert or logo in the match night programmes and a signed player photo. The jersey will be worn for cup games and play-off games and will not be available as a replica.
If you are interested or require more information on the individual player sponsorships, contact marketing@telfordtigers.net
Watch out for further details about new signings at Telford Tigers, visit: http://www.telfordtigers.net/news or catch up on Facebook or Twitter.
